C2 Spinal Cord Injury: Understanding the Effects, Treatment, & Recovery Process

A C2 spinal cord injury is a serious condition involving damage to the upper portion of the cervical region of the spinal cord. The spinal cord is a delicate bundle of nerves that transmits messages between the body and brain. Damage at the C2 level can significantly affect motor control and sensation throughout the entire body. To help survivors and their families better understand what to expect after a C2 spinal cord injury, this article will discuss which functions can be affected at this level of cervical spinal cord injury. Various rehabilitative interventions that can promote recovery will also be discussed. Use the...

Cerebral Palsy and Mental Health: Why Psychological Care Matters

When physical health is affected by cerebral palsy, the corresponding effects on one’s mental health may be overlooked. For example, an individual’s medical team may be more concerned about improving mobility so that the person is self-sufficient, before addressing mental health concerns. However, the two can go hand-in-hand and should both be equally prioritized. Mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression can interfere with motivation to participate in therapy regardless of whether the individual with cerebral palsy is a child or an adult. To help you understand the link between cerebral palsy and mental health disorders, this article will discuss: Causes Mental...

Cerebral Palsy and Pregnancy: Understanding the Risks and Promoting a Safe Delivery

Many individuals with cerebral palsy may wonder whether they will ever be able to have children. Fortunately, the answer is yes! Although there are different risks involved for women with cerebral palsy during pregnancy, many people with cerebral palsy have kids and become excellent parents. This article will explore the relationship between cerebral palsy and pregnancy. Use the links below to jump straight to any section. Cerebral palsy and pregnancy facts How pregnancy affects your body How cerebral palsy can affect pregnancy Will my child have cerebral palsy? Important Facts About Cerebral Palsy and Pregnancy Cerebral palsy is a motor disability caused by damage to the developing...

Understanding a Clenched Hand & Curled Fingers After Stroke: How to Treat Hand Spasticity

Spasticity is a secondary effect commonly experienced after stroke that can cause muscles to become stiff or tight. For many survivors, spasticity affects the arm and hand and often leads to a clenched hand or curled fingers after stroke. This severe spasticity in the hand is due to miscommunication between the brain and muscles, causing the muscles that control the hand to spasm and gradually tighten. Fortunately, there are ways to rewire the brain and restore mobility in the hand and fingers. This article will discuss the causes and treatment for severe hand spasticity and curled fingers after stroke. Causes of a...

Maximizing Hand Recovery After Stroke: How to Improve Hand and Finger Mobility

Hand recovery after stroke can be a slow process, affecting many daily activities. However, we now know that recovery of hand function can continue to occur months, and even years, following stroke. The chances of hand recovery increase with consistent practice and repetition of rehabilitation exercises. In this article we will discuss techniques to maximize recovery after stroke and promote return of hand function. Fundamentals of Hand Recovery After Stroke Hand function is often one of the slowest to return after stroke. Since the hands and feet are distal to (far away from) the midline of your body, this means they are also located...